Our Reggio Emilia-Inspired Philosophy
Located on Manhattan’s Upper West Side, the Early Childhood Center at Stephen Wise Free Synagogue began as the synagogue’s Nursery School and Kindergarten in 1949. Our philosophy is based on the world-renowned schools of Reggio Emilia, Italy, which value children as capable, strong, and rich with wonder and knowledge.
Learn more by watching the short videos below — or come on a tour of our Early Childhood Center!
The Image of the Child
At Stephen Wise Free Synagogue’s Early Childhood Center, we view children as capable and competent, able to construct their own knowledge. That’s why we provide open-ended materials and opportunities for children to explore their ideas.
The Hundred Languages of Children
“The child has a hundred languages… a hundred ways of thinking.” At Stephen Wise Free Synagogue’s Early Childhood Center, we believe children learn through everything they do — so we provide the environment, materials and experiences to grow into critical thinkers and problem solvers.
A Teaching Environment
At Stephen Wise Free Synagogue’s Early Childhood Center, we believe the environment plays a huge role in children’s learning. All of our spaces are intentionally designed, incorporating natural light, to stimulate creativity — and build Jewish identity.
Documentation
Documentation plays a number of roles in the Reggio Emilia philosophy. At Stephen Wise Free Synagogue’s Early Childhood Center, our teachers take notes, photographs, videos and audio recordings to communicate with families, guide the children’s learning and train educators.
Tour Our Early Childhood Center!
Our Early Childhood Center views children as capable, strong, and rich with wonder and knowledge. Join us for a tour to learn more about our nurturing spaces, world-class teachers and caring community!
